The University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy and the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy and Practice are highlighting the role their master’s programs play in preparing graduates for leadership in public policy and social work.
Lara Tamer, a master’s student at Harris, noted that combining data analysis with public policy is a key feature of her program. “The Harris School understands that numbers matter,” Tamer said. “Data isn’t just supplementary. It’s foundational to building compelling, evidence-based stories that can shape policy and drive real change.”
Ryan Kellogg, Ralph and Mary Otis Isham Professor and Deputy Dean for Academic Programs at Harris, described the school’s approach as emphasizing analytical thinking about policy choices. “Our brand of public policy is all about the fact that we think this work is serious business and requires careful thinking,” Kellogg said. “We pride ourselves on and emphasize how to think rigorously and analytically about policy alternatives, consequences and the choices that you make.”
Julia Henly, Samuel Deutsch Professor at the Crown Family School, explained how their program develops leaders who value analysis alongside ethical practice. “Our graduates are mission-driven leaders who understand the value of sound analysis and strong technical skills. They are passionate about addressing critical social challenges toward building a more just and humane society, where institutions and services make life better,” Henly said.
Harris students complete six core courses focused on data analysis, statistics, microeconomics, and analytical politics before moving on to electives designed to deepen their expertise in specific areas. Nicole Lee, MPP ’05 from Harris, credited her training for her success in public service: “The unique coursework within my program, and the type of thinker that Harris trains you to be, have both been valuable assets in my career. Since entering public service, I’ve returned again and again to those critical analytical skills.”
Lee began as a consultant before becoming Director of Social Impact Optimization at United Airlines. In 2022 she joined the Chicago City Council as its first Asian American woman member.
According to recent findings from UChicago Harris, 98 percent of its graduates secure employment within six months after graduation across sectors such as government agencies, NGOs, consulting firms or local governments worldwide.
Dave Sulek from Booz Allen Hamilton praised Harris alumni: “The Harris Master of Public Policy program consistently produces highly adaptable graduates who meet our business’ growing need for individuals who can bridge the gap between technologists and policymakers,” Sulek said. “Harris graduates stand out as agile learners who can think critically, an essential skill in our emerging high-tech world.”
At the Crown Family School, students receive interdisciplinary instruction during their first year covering social science theory along with practical methods relevant to social work administration or policy design. The curriculum offers five specializations—ranging from violence prevention to global health—to prepare students for diverse roles including direct practice or city planning.
Lisa Moore directs the master’s program at Crown Family School. She emphasized learning from faculty with expertise spanning multiple disciplines: “You learn from experts who understand the interconnected systems that shape people’s lives,” Moore said. “Here, you’re engaging with scholars and practitioners who examine how our institutions operate—and how they can be transformed to better support people. That deeply interdisciplinary perspective is what makes our program not just distinct but truly exceptional.”
Jessica Perez is pursuing public policy through Crown Family School; she values exposure both to direct practice experiences as well as broader policy analysis: “Social work encourages us to bring meaning, context, and people’s experiences into our work more authentically,” Perez said.
Abigail Erikson (MSW’07), now working with UN Women on ending violence against women globally, credits her education for helping her recognize systemic causes behind social problems: “Crown taught me to see the bigger picture—to understand that social problems are rooted in complex systems,” Erikson said. “It also gave me the research and policy skills to identify those root causes and work toward lasting solutions.
“And I feel like that ability enables me to be the most effective leader regardless of where I’m at—whether it’s individual family community or global policy work,” she added.